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UK Settlement Visa (ILR)

Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.

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Ready to make the UK your permanent home? The UK Settlement Visa, or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), opens the door to freedom and stability, letting you live, work, and build your future here without restrictions.

UK Settlement Visa (ILR) explained

The UK Settlement Visa, also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allows you to live in the UK permanently without visa restrictions. Once approved, you can work, study, and access public benefits freely. It's also the key step before applying for British citizenship.

General requirements for ILR

  • Continuous residence: Maximum 180 days absence per year
  • Life in the UK Test: Pass the official test about British life
  • English language: B1 level certification or UK degree
  • Good character: No serious criminal convictions
  • No immigration breaches: Maintained lawful status throughout
  • Financial requirements: Met salary thresholds (if applicable)

Documents required

  • Current passport and all previous passports
  • Current BRP card
  • Life in the UK test certificate
  • English language test certificate
  • Employer letter confirming employment
  • P60s and payslips for qualifying period
  • Evidence of absences from UK
  • Police registration certificate (if applicable)

Eligible visa routes for UK Settlement Visa (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

You can apply for UK ILR after the qualifying period on these visas:

  • **Skilled Worker****: **After 5 years
  • **Global Talent: **After 3 years (or 5 years)
  • **Innovator Founder: **After 3 years
  • UK Spouse/Partner:** **After 5 years
  • **UK Ancestry: **After 5 years
  • **Investor: **After 2 years (£10m) or 5 years (£2m)
  • **Long Residence: **After 10 years lawful residence

How to apply for UK Settlement Visa (ILR)

Applying for UK Settlement Visa can be complex. Here’s how we help streamline the process:

  1. **Check eligibility: **Ensure you meet all requirements & start your application
  2. **Pass tests: **Complete Life in the UK and English tests
  3. **Gather documents: **Collect all supporting evidence
  4. **Online application: **Complete form through our secure application platform
  5. **Pay fees: **£2,885 application fee
  6. **Biometric appointment: **Book and attend appointment
  7. **Wait for decision: **Usually within 6 months

6 benefits of UK ILR

  1. Stay in the UK permanently
  2. Work for any employer or be self-employed
  3. No more visa renewals
  4. Access public funds and services
  5. Travel abroad for up to 2 years without losing your status
  6. Apply for British citizenship after 12 months
Why OlaVisa

Professional Guidance, Proven Results.

Risk Free

Should your visa application be denied, you won't incur any additional fees. Our Denial Protection gives you the confidence to apply completely risk-free.

Regulatory Compliance

As an official partner of Global Law (UK) and an IFZA-licensed entity in the UAE, we ensure every file is managed under strict regulated oversight.

Years of expertise

Leveraging our partner's 17 years of specialized experience, our expert team guides you through every step — every application receives a thorough professional review.

Visa destinations

Through our partner network, we secure approvals in over 60 countries. Specialised guidance to navigate the entire process from start to finish.

Explore all visa services →
Why OlaVisa

Professional guidance, proven results.

01

Risk Free

Should your visa application be denied, you won't incur any additional fees. Our Denial Protection gives you the confidence to apply completely risk-free.

02

Regulatory Compliance

As an official partner of Global Law (UK) and an IFZA-licensed entity in the UAE, we ensure every file is managed under strict regulated oversight.

17+

Years of expertise

Leveraging our partner's 17 years of specialized experience, our expert team guides you through every step — every application receives a thorough professional review.

60+

Visa destinations

Through our partner network, we secure approvals in over 60 countries. Specialised guidance to navigate the entire process from start to finish.

Backed by credentials that matter.
About OlaVisa → Explore all visa services →
Questions answered

UK Settlement Visa (ILR) FAQ

Get answers to common questions about visa applications, requirements, and processes.

What is Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
ILR is permanent settlement status in the UK, allowing you to live, work, and study without immigration restrictions. It's a pathway to British citizenship.
When can I apply for ILR?
Most applicants can apply after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on an eligible visa. Some routes like Global Talent visa allow application after 3 years.
What is the continuous residence requirement?
You must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during your qualifying period. Some exceptions apply for work-related absences.
Do I need to pass the Life in the UK test?
Yes, most applicants aged 18-64 must pass the Life in the UK test and meet English language requirements (B1 level) unless exempt.
How much does ILR application cost?
The ILR application fee is £2,885. You'll also need to pay for the Life in the UK test (£50) and may need biometric enrollment (£19.20). Additional fees may apply.

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